Wednesday, April 1, 2020

11:00 AM via Microsoft Teams

Board Members attended from alternate locations to minimize group size and contact, as recommended by state and federal government officials due to COVID-19 and as allowed in ND Executive Order 2020-16.

President Carlsrud called the meeting to order at 11:13 AM.

Members present: Commissioner Magnuson, Commissioner Bishop, Commissioner Powell, Commissioner Erickson.

Others Present: City Auditor Richter, City Attorney Martineck, Chad Petersen from KLJ.

NEW BUSINESS

Discuss funding, including use of Renewal and Replacement fund, for new infrastructure in territories annexed to the City

President Carlsrud reported $3.4 million from Prairie Dog fund is likely impacted due to lower oil prices. City Auditor Richter stated the Renew and Replacement fund is fully designated for 2020. Any policy or procedure changes need to be sustainable for this development and future developments for new infrastructure in territories annexed to the City. Commissioner Magnuson discussed the city responsibility to extend infrastructure to a new development/future growth of the City; with infrastructure within a new development would be the developer’s responsibility. Magnuson discussed possible funding options, such as $55/linear foot for water; $55/linear foot for sewer extensions with cap at $150,000 to extend city water main and sewer main; depending on size of development and proximity to current services. City Auditor Richter stated the Renew and Replacement fund could support the $150,000 for this and future developments. Commissioner Bishop inquired if bonding would be appropriate for the infrastructure. City Auditor Richter stated the R&R fund would support without bonding; it may be necessary in the future. City Auditor Richter and President Carlsrud mentioned impacts to city budgets including lower gas taxes, lower sales tax collections due to COVID-19.

Chad Petersen from KLJ provided background regarding the water supply to areas including the Love’s property that require coordination with Barnes Rural Water to ensure that designs and specifications are met, but water is sold by Barnes Rural Water (after being purchased from the City and going through a meter pit).

President Carlsrud asked for Commission input. Commissioner Erickson supported development of homes. Commissioner Magnuson responded to Commissioner Powell that electrical service expected from VCPW. Commissioner Bishop agreed with housing developments.

City Auditor Richter responded to City Attorney Martineck that the original intent of the R&R fund was for existing infrastructure as fund was established in 2007 and 2010. City Auditor Richter asked for Commission clarity that the intent is for residential developments (not commercial properties or apartments) in newly annexed territories.

City Attorney Martineck stated an ordinance change would be needed to allow fund use for new development.

Consider Bridgetown Development requests related to Auditors Lot 5 of NE¼, Section 27, Township 140N, Range 58W, Barnes Country (Waterfront Meadows subdivision)

• Cost-share for infrastructure to new subdivision
  
  Donny Eberle, registered agent for Bridgetown Developments, inquired about electrical service for the development and cost shares for extension of the lines/transformers. President Carlsrud stated this will need to be researched.
  
  Commissioner Magnuson clarified that within the development, the cost is fully on the developer. Magnuson’s previous statements has been to extend services to the development.
  
  Eberle stated there is currently 300-400 feet from the current infrastructure to the development. The land between is city-owned. Eberle asked for city to pay for extension in full across the city-owned land and to a 50/50 cost-share the infrastructure on the roadway as other adjacent land is not owned by Bridgetown Development.
  
• Waiver of performance bond
  
  City Attorney Martineck stated the code requires a performance bond as the City will be extending roadway and service lines to the development. Eberle requested waiver of the performance bond to help lower costs to the developer and offered the opportunity for a lien. Commissioner Powell asked if this possible. City Attorney Martineck will look into this and stated this will create a precedent if the Commission moves forward.
  
• Curb/gutter/street installation.
  
  Donny Eberle stated requested waiver of street, curb and gutter installations with the intent to have this done by the City through special assessments. Eberle referred to previous developments where this has occurred. This requirement is in the City’s land subdivision code. Commissioner Magnuson agreed special assessment district could occur. Commission discussed. Magnuson stated that MDU is not available in this area and discussions are occurring.
  
• Taxation of undeveloped lots.
  
  City Auditor Richter read an email from City Assessor Hansen regarding the taxation of undeveloped lots, there is a 30% discount on these lots. Hansen requested any consideration should keep fairness to other developments in mind.
  
  Donny Eberle stated there will be 47 taxable lots, split into two phases of development. Eberle asked that unsold lots be assessed at agricultural rate. 18 townhomes are planned to go along the waterfront beginning this summer. Eberle also asked that special assessments not be applied to unsold properties if roadway is installed and only be applied once there is a sales transaction. Commissioner Powell inquired about impacts to other undeveloped lots and the agricultural rates in other areas of town. City Auditor Richter stated this needs to be addressed by City Assessor Hansen.
  
  Commissioner Magnuson stated when the improvements are made, special assessments are applied to properties within district. Magnuson clarified that an improvement district can be protested out, if 50% protest the improvements.
  
  City Attorney Martineck stated the City should enter into a Development Agreement with Bridgetown Development that addresses each of the issues.
  
  President Carlsrud directed City Staff to prepare for continued discussion at April finance meeting and the regular meeting on 4/7/2020 for consideration. Additional items that will be considered include the sidewalks, Barnes Rural Water development agreement.

Adjourn

Meeting was adjourned at 12:23 P.M.

Tuesday, April 7, 2020

5:00 PM via Microsoft Teams. Board Members attended from alternate locations to minimize group size and contact, as recommended by state and federal government officials due to COVID-19 and as allowed in ND Executive Order 2020-16.

President Carlsrud called the meeting to order at 5:00 PM.

Members present: Commissioner Magnuson, Commissioner Bishop, Commissioner Powell, Commissioner Erickson.

Others Present: City Auditor Richter, City Attorney Martineck, City Assessor Hansen, and Chad Petersen with KLJ.

Call to Order

Roll Call

Best Tasting Water Presentation

Erik Volk with ND Rural Water presented the City of Valley City with an award for the Best Tasting Water. The competition took place at the ND Rural Expo in Fargo in February. The City will have a chance to compete at Nationals held in Washington D.C.

Approval of Agenda – No Changes

Approval of Minutes

Commissioner Bishop moved to approve the minutes from the March 18, 2020 meeting, seconded by Commissioner Ross. Motion carried.

Approval of Consent Agenda

1. Approve Monthly Reports from the Fire Chief, Building Inspector, Auditor, Municipal Judge and Public Works Accountant.
2. Approve Monthly Bills for the City and Public Works in the Amount of $1,931,152.61
3. Approve Raffle Permits for Barnes County Wildlife Federation and Valley Quilters

Commissioner Powell moved to approve the consent agenda, seconded by Commissioner Magnuson. The motion passed unanimously.

Public Comments

There were no public comments.

Ordinances

Approve second and final reading of Ordinance No. 1051, an Ordinance Annexing Auditor’s Lot 5 of the NE ¼ of the SW ¼ of Section 27, Township 140, Range 58

Attorney Martineck reported there were no changes from the prior meeting. This ordinance pertains to the development of a residential subdivision. Commissioner Magnuson moved to approve Ordinance No. 1051, seconded by Commissioner Erickson. The motion passed unanimously.

Resolutions

Approve Resolution No. 2251, a Resolution Approving Plat of Waterfront Meadows

Attorney Martineck stated the Planning and Zoning Board met and held a public hearing regarding the plat. The Planning and Zoning Board recommended approval of the plat based on the following conditions: defining the wider roadway, identifying the park & walking path, giving the pond and unusable land a designated lot number, and approval of no sidewalks needed. Commission discussed these conditions that need to be addressed before this plat is approved including a written agreement with Barnes Rural Water, a Performance Bond, and a Developer’s Agreement. Commissioner Magnuson would like to see dollars put aside annually for infrastructure expansion. Magnuson moved to table Resolution No. 2251, seconded by Commissioner Erickson. The motion passed unanimously.

Approve Resolution No. 2252, a Resolution Approving Plat of Plecity Mobile Home Park

Attorney Martineck stated the Planning and Zoning Board met and held a public hearing regarding the plat. The Planning and Zoning Board recommended approval of the plat with the condition of confirmation and inclusion of utility easements and a possible 60’ right of way of 17^th Avenue SW. Attorney Martineck stated that after further review the maximum width of 17^th Avenue SW is 56 feet based on current conditions. Commissioner Bishop moved to approve the plat, seconded by Commissioner Erickson. The motion passed unanimously.

New Business

Update regarding garbage collection the remainder of this week

President Carlsrud stated Friday, April 10^th is a holiday, city offices will be closed, and city crews with not be operating. Friday’s garbage pick-up will be picked up on Wednesday and Thursday this week.

City Updates & Commission Reports

City Auditor Richter reported on the election on June 9^th. Election will be strictly vote by mail with no in-person voting. There will be a drop box available on the north side of the court house to drop off ballots. Be watching for your ballots in the mail. If you don’t receive ballots by April 30^th, call or email the Barnes County Auditor.

Chad Petersen with KLJ reported on Permanent Flood Protection Phase IIA and III. The contractor and subcontractor plan to resume work in the middle to end of April. KLJ and City staff reviewed the City’s Urban Road Program to look at possible projects that might be eligible for a new COVID funding package through the Federal Aid Urban Road System.

Commissioner Erickson encouraged the public to play it safe with COVID and protect yourself and others.

Commissioner Powell inquired when the 5^th Ave NW project will be starting. Chad stated the pre job is tentatively scheduled for the end of April and start date would be early May. When we have a more firm date KLJ will work on communication with the property owners. Commissioner Powel also asked what the best source is to answer questions regarding COVID. President Carlsrud recommended following the recommendations of the Governor and encouraged people watch the press conferences.

Commissioner Bishop gave a shout out to the Police and Fire Departments in handling the COVID situation.

Commissioner Magnuson thanked all the entities and gave a shout out to City staff and President Carlsrud for being a tremendous leader through this COVID process. He commended the Governor for his good guidance on closings. Thank you to fellow Commissioners. Everyone stay safe, reach out to others, and support our local businesses.

President Carlsrud gave a shout out to Wade Hesch and Sherry Keys at the Water Treatment Plant. Census 2020 generates money and offsets cost just by getting everyone counted. Everyone needs to be counted. Fargo is emphasizing staying at home with more positive COVID tests, make good judgements.

Adjourn

Meeting was adjourned at 5:50 P.M.

The City Commission meet on Monday, April 13, 2020 at 4:00 PM CT, via conference call. Board Members attended from alternate locations to minimize group size and contact, as recommended by state and federal government officials due to COVID-19 and as allowed in ND Executive Order 2020-16.

President Carlsrud presided and continued with roll call.

Members present: Commissioner Magnuson, Commissioner Bishop, Commissioner Erickson.

Members absent: Commissioner Powell.

Others Present: Finance Director Richter, Assessor Hansen, City Attorney Martineck.

Finance Director Richter read North Dakota Century Code sections 57-11-01, 03 and 07 pertaining to the duties of the Board of Equalization.

President Carlsrud declared the hearing open at 4:06 P.M. City Assessor Sandy Hansen reported the changes in property values within the city for 2020. An overall summary was read and submitted, with the breakdown as follows:

Property Type	2019 State Certified Values	2020 Projected Totals	$ Change	% Change
1.  Residential Land	$               34,837,100	$             35,274,600	$          437,500	1.26%
2.  Residential Structure	$             212,371,200	$           218,227,600	$         5,856,400	2.76%
Grand Total Residential	$             247,208,300	$           253,502,200	$         6,293,900	2.55%
3.  Commercial Land	$               33,761,081	$             34,463,755	$           702,674	2.08%
4.  Commercial Structure	$             118,677,009	$           124,187,065	$           5,510,056	4.64%
Grand Total Commercial	$           152,438,090	$          158,650,820	$           6,212,730	4.08%
5.  Agricultural Land	$                     95,700	$                    98,800	$                  3,100	3.24%
Grand Total Agricultural	$                    95,700	$                   98,800	$                  3,100	3.24%
5.  Total Market Value	$        399,742,090	$      412,251,820	$       12,509,730	3.13%

City Assessor Hansen reported the parcels for Waterfront Meadows Annexation will be added to the tax rolls in 2021.
 
Sixty-five notices of increase were sent out. The following property owners contacted City Assessor Hansen regarding the notice of increase for 2020.

PARCEL nUMBER	pROPERTY OWNER	REQUESTED CHANGE
63-4270414	Joshua & Jackie Gow	The house had been updated and was recently purchased. The house was not reviewed in 2017 when the City Assessor was in neighborhood. Dropped value by $2,300 per changes confirmed with new property owners (ie, siding was repainted, not new) prior to the meeting.

No written comments were received by City Auditor.

Commissioner Magnuson moved to close the hearing, seconded Commissioner Bishop. The motion passed unanimously.

Commissioner Bishop moved to approve the assessment book as presented by the City Assessor, seconded by Commissioner Erickson.  The motion passed unanimously.

Adjourn

The meeting was adjourned at 4:33 p.m.

Valley City, North Dakota

Thursday, April 16, 2020
5:30 PM

The City Commission City Administrator Search Committee meet on Thursday, April 16, 2020 at 5:30 PM CT, via conference call. Members may attend from alternate locations to minimize group size and contact, as recommended by state and federal government officials due to COVID-19 and as allowed in ND Executive Order 2020-16.  

President Carlsrud called the meeting to order at 5:30 PM.

Committee Members Present: President Carlsrud, Commissioner Magnuson, Commissioner Bishop, Commissioner Erickson, Commissioner Powell, City Attorney Martineck, Public Works Superintendent Differding, Sanitation Department Head Swart, Police Chief Hatcher, Fire Chief Magnuson, City Auditor Richter.

Committee Members Absent: Electrical Superintendent Senf, Water Treatment Plant Superintendent Hesch.

New Business

Review applications and select finalists for City Administrator position.

Executive Session with City Administrator Selection Committee Members. Meeting must be closed pursuant to N.D.C.C. section 44-04-18.27

President Carlsrud declared the Executive Session began at 5:37 PM with all present committee members attending. Commissioner Powell moved to end the Executive Session at 6:01 PM, seconded by Commissioner Magnuson. Motion carried.

President Carlsrud reconvened the meeting at 6:10 PM. Commissioner Bishop moved to approve the finalists, seconded by Commissioner Magnuson. City Auditor Richter stated the finalists are Larry Thompson, Darcy Long, and Gwendolyn Crawford. All committee members present participated in roll call vote and voted aye. The motion passed unanimously.

Adjourn

Adjourned at 6:15 PM.